REVIEW: Fleetwood Mac played to a sold-out crowd of 14,613 at North Little Rock’s Verizon Arena

Fleetwood Mac rocks Little Rock
May 3, 2013 - Verizon Center

Photo by Nelson Chenault

by Joe Miles
Baxter Bulletin

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Fleetwood Mac brought their iconic sound to central Arkansas Friday night as part of a 48-city North American tour celebrating the 35th anniversary of the band’s prolific album “Rumours,” which was the best-selling album of all time the year of its release.

The group played to a sold-out crowd of 14,613 jubilant fans at North Little Rock’s Verizon Arena. This tour brings the band members back together for the first time in three years.

They opened the show with three songs from “Rumours,” beginning with “Second Hand News” featuring a rambunctious drumming introduction by band leader Mick Fleetwood and the vocals of lead guitarist Lindsey Buckingham.

The rousing opening was followed by “The Chain” and “Dreams,” with Stevie Nicks bringing her unique vocals and mystical stage presence to the forefront.

Bassist John McVie was a quiet master of rhythm throughout the 23-song set that included two encores.

Buckingham stole the show with several guitar improvisations, especially during an acoustical set that included songs “Big Love” and “Landslide.” The group also performed “Sad Angel” and “Without You” from their recently released EP — aptly entitled “Extended Play” — that contains the band’s first newly released material in 10 years.

The first encore featured a rousing rendition of “World Turning” and “Don’t Stop (Thinkin’ About Tomorrow),” a song closely associated with the 1992 campaign of President Bill Clinton.

Band leader Fleetwood introduced band members and background vocalists, concluding with accolades for the former president and wife, Hillary Clinton, the nation’s former Secretary of State, who were in the audience.

The band returned to the stage for a second encore, ending the evening with the ballad “Say Goodbye.”

Buckingham’s guitar work, Nicks’ vocals and the band’s interaction with the crowd stirred up one of the most memorable rock and roll shows Arkansas has seen.

“The Mac is back!” Fleetwood yelled as he left the stage.